Sometimes several male seals
compete for one female. Hooded
seals are big animals. They are
also aggressive. When two males
compete, they inflate their hoods
to look even more threatening. The
smaller male usually backs down.
But if the seals are the same size,
they fight. They shove and chase
each other until one gives up. The
winner becomes the female’s mate.
A male hooded seal
with an inflated
nose balloon
THINK ABOUT IT
Male hooded seals use their hoods
and nose balloons to attract
potential mates. What other
adaptations in the animal kingdom
help different species find mates?
Research to find your answer.
4
Age, in years, when
male seals develop their
hoods.
• The hooded seal is
named for the male’s
large, black hood.
• Males can also inflate
pink nose balloons.
• Males use their hoods
and nose balloons to
attract females and
threaten rivals.
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